Lipstick plants, also known as Aeschynanthus, are popular houseplants that originated from Southeast Asia. They are well-known for their bright red flowers that resemble lipstick tubes, hence their name. While they are generally easy to care for, many plant owners have noticed that their lipstick plant leaves curl or twist. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of this phenomenon.
Overwatering is a common cause of curled or twisted leaves in lipstick plants. When the soil is constantly wet, it can cause the roots to rot and the plant to become waterlogged. As a result, the leaves may start to curl or twist.
If you suspect overwatering is the cause of your lipstick plant’s curled leaves, you should reduce the frequency of watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. You may also need to repot your plant if the roots have become waterlogged.
On the other hand, underwatering can also cause your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist. When a plant doesn’t receive enough water, it becomes stressed and tries to conserve moisture by curling its leaves.
If you suspect underwatering is causing your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl, you should increase the frequency of watering. Make sure to water the soil thoroughly until it drains out of the bottom of the pot.
Temperature fluctuations can also cause your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist. If your plant is exposed to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature, it can become stressed and start exhibiting unusual growth patterns.
To avoid temperature stress on your lipstick plant, make sure to keep it in a consistent environment with temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Avoid placing it near drafts or heating/cooling vents.
Lipstick plants prefer high levels of humidity, and low humidity can cause their leaves to curl or twist. Dry air can cause the plant to lose moisture rapidly, leading to leaf curling and other signs of stress.
Increase the humidity around your lipstick plant by misting it regularly or placing a humidifier in the same room. You can also place a tray of water near the plant to increase moisture levels in the air.
Pests, such as spider mites and mealybugs, can also cause your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing damage to the leaves and other parts of the plant.
Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pest infestations, such as webbing or sticky residue on the leaves. If you notice any pests, remove them immediately using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Disease can also cause your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist. Fungal infections, for example, can cause the leaves to become discolored and distorted.
If you suspect that disease is causing your lipstick plant’s curled leaves, you should remove any affected leaves immediately and treat the plant with a fungicide. You may also need to repot the plant if the soil is contaminated.
Q: Can I prune my lipstick plant if its leaves are curled or twisted?
A: Yes, you can prune your lipstick plant if you notice curled or twisted leaves. Pruning will help the plant redirect its energy towards healthier growth.
Q: Can I propagate my lipstick plant if its leaves are curled or twisted?
A: It is not recommended to propagate a lipstick plant if its leaves are curled or twisted. Propagation should only be done with healthy plants to ensure successful growth.
Q: Can fertilizer cause my lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist?
A: Yes, over-fertilization can cause your lipstick plant’s leaves to curl or twist. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and do not exceed the recommended dosage.
Q: How frequently should I water my lipstick plant?
A: The frequency of watering depends on several factors, such as the plant’s size, pot size, and humidity levels. As a general rule, you should water your lipstick plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.